State title or bust

Holbrook senior searching for first state crown

Holbrook’s Theron Johns has Mason Fagotti of Show Low in a headlock during the Arizona Division III, Section I wrestling tournament at Winslow High School. Johns is hoping to win his first individual crown at this year’s state meet. (Times photo – Paul Natonabah)

WINSLOW, Ariz.

Theron Johns was one of eight Holbrook wrestlers that made the podium at last year’s Arizona Division III state wrestling tournament.

At the conclusion of the two-day event, Johns celebrated with his teammates as they brought home the team championship.

“I was glad that we won it,” Johns said. “We knew that we had clinched it by the second day.”

Johns said winning the team title was a dream come true but he didn’t get what he truly wanted: an individual championship.

At last year’s state meet, the Roadrunners had three individuals make the finals in their respective weight class but in the 120-pound category Johns fell in the quarterfinals.

Nevertheless, he finished out the tournament and placed fourth overall by winning three of four matches.
Ironically, that same scenario played itself out when he was a sophomore so Johns is hoping to get over that proverbial hump.

Needless to say, he’s looking for better results at this week’s state tournament, which starts today at the Prescott Valley Event Center.

“It’s my senior year and I don’t want to take fourth again,” Johns said. “I’m sick of it and honestly all I want to do is win a state title.”

Johns said he’s put countless hours into craft and anything less than a state title would be a disappointment.

“Right now I have supreme confidence,” the Holbrook senior said. “I know I can do this.”

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